Re: Elecraft OT - Lightning Protection
Posted by
Len, K3LJ on
URL: http://elecraft.85.s1.nabble.com/Elecraft-OT-Lightning-Protection-tp2991231p2996158.html
-----Original Message-----
From: "Bill W4ZV (via Nabble)"
Sent: May 29, 2009 6:58 AM
To: "Len, K3LJ"
Subject: Re: Elecraft OT - Lightning Protection
The most economical and most effective lightning protection is to simply disconnect *ALL* cables (preferably outside the shack) and disconnect *ALL* equipment power cords from the wall when lightning is in the vicinity. I also have a whole house surge suppressor on my power service and use quick disconnect trailer hitch connectors for my control cables.
I have a 180' tower that is the highest structure for miles around and have never had any internal damage from lightning in 14 years at this QTH.
I've also learned to become my own lightning forecaster using websites like the following:
http://www.uspln.com/index2.html (my favorite...touch the bottom of the map)
http://thunderstorm.vaisala.com/explorer.html
http://www.weather.com/maps/activity/golf/uslightningstrikes_large.html
73, Bill